Medications that directly affect renal function and interfere with fluid balance include diuretics, laxatives, and
angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. Psychotropic medications, such as antipsychotics and anxiolytics, have anticholinergic effects that cause dryness of the mouth, constipation, or urinary retention—effects that can alter hydration status. Polypharmacy has also been shown to heighten risk: Lavizzo-Mourey and colleagues found a significant
bivariate relationship between the use of more than four medications and severe dehydration in nursing home residents.